From the Leader of Learning and Curriculum
Year 11: Preparing for Preliminary Examinations (Week 8)
During Term 1, Year 11 engaged in a study skills workshop with Dr Prue Salter, focusing on effective revision techniques and strategies for managing senior study. This week, students received their Preliminary Examination Timetable via Compass, giving them a clear runway to prepare for the end‑of‑course exams beginning in Week 8.
Empower in Week 4 has been designed to help students revisit their learning from the Term 1 workshop by accessing the study resources and working with their House Teacher to develop a manageable, consistent study schedule. All details for accessing these resources have been published on the Year 11 Compass Newsfeed by Ms Bowland.
Your daughter’s academic success is strengthened when school and home work in partnership. With a month to prepare for exams that will feel different from those they have completed previously, families may find the following conversation prompts helpful in supporting purposeful preparation:
- Understanding their preparation – How are you feeling about your exams? Which subjects feel strongest right now?
- Planning and organisation – Do you have a study plan that feels realistic? How can I help you stay organised?
- Wellbeing and balance – Is anything making preparation harder than it needs to be?
- Support and encouragement – What support would be most helpful right now? What are you proud of so far?
- Building confidence – What strengths will help you succeed? What are you looking forward to once exams are finished?
As the Preliminary Exams draw closer, a simple daily check‑in can be powerful: “What’s one thing that went well with your study today, and what’s one thing you need help with?”
Years 7–10: Starting Semester 2 Strong
We are now three weeks into Semester 2, and this is an ideal moment for students to ensure they have set themselves up well for the term ahead. Effective habits early in the semester help students avoid last‑minute pressure and maintain steady progress.
Families can support students by encouraging them to:
- Get into a routine
- Use the College Planner daily
- Track assessments and begin tasks early
These small, consistent habits make a significant difference as students move toward their Half‑Yearly Reports and upcoming assessments.
Year 10: Finalising Subject Selections for 2027
On Wednesday 5 August, Year 10 students completed their Subject Selection Interviews, providing an opportunity to further refine and confirm their choices for Stage 6. These conversations, combined with the thoughtful discussions taking place at home, have helped students make well‑informed decisions about their 2027 pattern of study.
As we approach the end of the selection process, it is important to acknowledge the effort, time, and care that students, families, and staff have invested. The next step is for students to begin building positive learning habits over the coming months so that they enter Year 11 feeling confident, organised, and ready to put their best foot forward.
Year 12: HSC Trial Examinations
Year 12 Trial Examinations commenced this week, and the cohort should be commended for their positive attitude and focused approach. These exams are an important opportunity for students to demonstrate the depth of their learning and to prepare for the HSC examinations in the months ahead.
Looking Ahead
Across the College, it has been encouraging to see students engaging positively with their learning and taking responsibility for their progress. Whether they are preparing for major exams, Selecting new subjects, or building strong routines, our students continue to show commitment, resilience, and a desire to do their best. With the support of families and the guidance of their teachers, they are well placed for a purposeful and productive term.
